Could Apple's next budget phone pack a surprising punch? Rumors are circulating that the upcoming iPhone SE 4 might boast the same A18 chip expected in the flagship iPhone 16 lineup. This would be a significant leap for the SE series, potentially delivering flagship-level performance at a more accessible price point.
A18 Chip: Bridging the Performance Gap
The buzz surrounding the iPhone SE 4 suggests that Apple may be aiming to minimize the performance disparity between its budget and flagship phones. An anonymous tipster on X, shared by MacRumors, claims the new iPhone SE will be powered by a chip identified as T8140 – the same identifier associated with both the A18 and A18 Pro chips. While the A18 Pro is unlikely for a budget-focused device, an A18 chip would place it on par with the iPhone 16 in terms of raw processing power.
More than Just a Chip: Other Expected Features
Beyond the possibility of the A18 chip, other leaks indicate the following potential features for the iPhone SE 4:
- Design: A design similar to the iPhone 16, moving away from the traditional SE look.
- Display: A Dynamic Island replacing the classic notch.
- Custom 5G modem: Apple's in-house 5G modem, though perhaps less capable than Qualcomm's offerings.
- RAM: 8GB of RAM to support the new Apple Intelligence features.
iPad Air 7 and iPad 11 Rumors
The same source also provided details about the upcoming iPads:
- iPad Air 7: Expected to come with an M3 chip rather than the previously rumored M4.
- iPad 11: Possibly launching with an A16 chip, potentially making it the only device not equipped with Apple Intelligence.
Launch Timeline
All of these devices are expected to launch with iOS 18.3 and iPadOS 18.3 pre-installed, hinting at a launch timeframe possibly sooner than initially anticipated. While the rumored April launch is still possible, the recent information suggests it might be moved forward.
The prospect of the iPhone SE 4 featuring an A18 chip is exciting news for budget-conscious Apple fans. If these rumors prove true, the new SE could be a compelling option for those seeking flagship-level performance without the flagship price tag. As always, we’ll continue to monitor the situation and bring you the latest as it develops.
